Cons

Rooms are small and basic

The apartment side of the property has stairs only

Wi-Fi is unreliable

Bottom Line

This 26-room basic but contemporary hotel is a stand-out choice for two reasons: reasonable room rates, and the location! The property is situated in the prime 1st arrondissement of Paris, within steps of Le Louvre and Tuileries Gardens; guests will be hard-pressed to find a more affordable option in this area. Though hotel itself certainly falls into the budget category, it's more modern than some may expect. Rooms are small and lack big hotel amenities, and some show wear and tear (we spotted a small hole in one wall), but they have fresh bedding, flat-screen TVs, small desks, and up-to-date bathrooms. Free Wi-Fi is available, sometimes, and a small business area can assist when it's down (which is often). For more living space, the hotel does offer apartments (studio, large flat and duplex size) that come with lounge/dining areas and full kitchens. This section of the hotel does not have an elevator so be prepared to climb. Guests can start the day with espresso and free newspapers in the stylish breakfast room decorated with exposed stone walls.

Oyster Hotel Photos

Oyster Hotel Review

An outstanding "right bank" location close to Le Louvre and Tuileries Gardens

Hotel du Lion d'Or's biggest asset is its prime location. The small property takes residence in one of the city's oldest arrondissements: the 1st arrondissement, situated on the right bank. It is also the least populated district, since it is occupied by the expansive Louvre Museum and Tuileries Gardens. For tourists who want to explore by foot, not much else comes close -- from here, it's possible to walk to Marais neighborhood and shop the Champs Elysees, or cross the Seine River for the Latin Quarter and St. Germain. Further destinations can be reached via the two metro stops near the hotel; the closest station is Tuileries, which provides direct access to l'Arc de Triomphe and the business district la Défense. Guests staying in the apartment units (with full kitchens), will likely appreciate the market at the end of the street for fresh fruit and baguettes. In addition, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants and bars nearby. Tip: It's worth visiting the Louvre at night for a romantic setting -- the museum stays open late on Friday evenings.